Program Description

The Indian River State College Criminal Justice Institute is certified by the Florida Department of Law Enforcement to conduct authorized Criminal Justice Standards and Training Commission courses.

The safety and well being of our Nation's citizens greatly depends on the Law Enforcement Officers responsible for enforcing statutes, laws and regulations. Duties vary widely by the size and type of organization, but in most jurisdictions, whether on or off duty, Law Enforcement Officers are expected to exercise their authority whenever necessary. In addition, they spend considerable time writing reports and maintaining records that are needed when legal actions require them to testify in court.

This two year degree program offers the student a broad background in the history, philosophy, organization, management, and operation of the criminal justice system. In law enforcement, an emphasis is placed on the role of the police in the process of social control and in the legal and philosophical issues involved. In corrections, emphasis is placed on the supervision, protection, care, custody, and control of offenders. Opportunities for employment are available in law enforcement agencies, correctional institutions, juvenile courts, social service agencies, crime laboratories, and security agencies.